Nationals Eye Clay Holmes for Playoff Push | Washington Nationals News

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On July 24th, the Washington Nationals are in a tight race, sitting just one and a half games out of the final wild card spot as July 23rd rolls around. Manager Blake Butera says the team is feeling the pressure, but in a good way, enjoying meaningful baseball for the first time in years. However, to make a real playoff push, they'll need some serious help for their pitching staff. One name that's popping up is Clay Holmes, a pitcher for the New York Mets. He's been sidemined since mid-May, with a fractured fibula, but he's expected to be available soon. If the Mets decide to trade him, the Nationals should definitely be looking to make a move for him. Holmes has a solid track record, posting a 3.53 earned run average last season, and even bettering that with a 2.39.
ERA through 9 starts this year, before his injury. If acquired, he'd instantly slot into their top three starters, right alongside Kay Cavalli and Foster Griffin.
This move would signal a serious commitment to competing in October. Getting homes won't be cheap. Reports suggest he's going to attract a lot of trade interest, meaning the Nationals would have to offer up some compelling assets, especially for an Ann. Indivision Trade. Plus, his $13 million salary this year, and a potential $12 million player option for 2027, means this could be more than just a short-term fix. With the trade deadline approaching on August 3rd, it's unclear what the Nationals will do.
But with Clay Holmes potentially on the market, he's a player they should seriously consider if they want to make it to October Baseball. Washington Nationals News Today, powered by AI bringing you what matters on the field and beyond.